East Lyme -
A truly wonderful man … genuine, loving, generous, and kind … a gentleman. With our deepest sorrow we share the peaceful passing of Vincent J. Lanzalotta, 93, surrounded by our family and his beloved Ellen by his side.
Vince was born to Gerardo and Luigina (Cicirelli) Lanzalotta on February 16, 1932. He is predeceased by his much loved son Stephen, brother Nick, sister Andonette, and husband James Strazza.
A graduate of Chapman Tech, Vince went on to graduate from UCONN with a Master’s Degree in Education and Sixth-Year Diploma. He played tennis for the UCONN team and could often be found on a tennis court through the years enjoying a friendly but competitive match with great friends. He was an avid fan of the UCONN women’s basketball team and the New York Yankees.
After college, he served our country in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. Shortly after his discharge, he met his love Ellen while working together at a summer camp for children at McCook’s Beach in Niantic. On June 21, 1958 at St. Agnes Church in Niantic, they promised to love, honor, and cherish each other for the rest of their lives … and they did, an extraordinary life of 67 years. Together they raised their four children, Kathy Friedman, Nancy, and husband Tim Shelburn; Karen, and husband Jim Bartelli; and loving son Stephen.
Vince began his career as a principal of Gales Ferry Elementary School in Ledyard before being chosen as the first principal of Oswegatchie Elementary School in Waterford in 1965. His leadership had a profound impact on students and their families through the 25 years Vince served our community. Together with his amazing staff, they created an atmosphere and reputation as an exceptional learning environment that included many after-school activities. Many former students still remember Mr. Lanzalotta as a great principal who greeted them each morning by name with his friendly smile. His kindhearted disposition and passion for education will forever be remembered.
Vince and Ellen retired to Florida after their dedicated service in education where they began an adventure of a lifetime. They enjoyed traveling together, planning and escorting groups in the United States and around the world.
Their greatest joy was welcoming 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren into their world. Affectionately called “Papalotta”, Vince always made each one feel how happy he was to see them with his heartwarming smile and easy laugh.
Vince's life was filled with many dear friends and a special bond with his niece Judy, and husband Larry Ramus, Carol (Joe) Mariani, and sister-in-law Patty Lanzalotta.
Vince enjoyed gardening, spending time with family at the beach, weekends in Vermont, and any chance he got to dance with Ellen.
Our lives are better because of his kindness, his optimism, his love for children, our country, and family. He will be missed more than our words can express. In honor of Vince’s memory, remember as you walk through life, smile ~ it will make someone happy.